Improving the Traffic Flow in Hot Arid Climate Areas by Implementing a Monorail Light Rail Transit System: Case of Kuwait

Abstract

This study investigated the viability of establishing a monorail network system in Kuwait as an additional means of transportation to the current transportation systems. Two critical areas with high traffic demands were identified through the collected traffic data at the major intersections in these areas., These areas were Kuwait City (near the ministries area) and Al-Blajat street (known as the Arabian Gulf street). Traffic data and Level Of Service (LOS) of these areas were then analyzed using Synchro software, supported by site suitability studies conducted using ArcGIS Pro software. The most suitable locations of the proposed monorail systems were obtained by identifying the major Points Of Interest (POIs) in these areas. Synchro simulations of the systems with and without the monorail systems were performed. The results showed that the level of service at various intersections is improved, which can result in a significant reduction of the traffic congestion in these areas. The study also targeted different passengers and residents in the selected areas to evaluate the level of acceptance of the monorail system as an alternative transportation system in the state of Kuwait.